Perani’s Hockey World has chosen its entry point in the Columbus market.

The Flint, Michigan-based retailer plans to open Aug. 1 in 8,000 square feet in the Lazelle Market Place at 8269-8333 Lazelle Road, off Sancus Boulevard south of the Polaris Fashion Place mall.

Perani Vice President Mike Sander said the 22-unit chain has operated a store in Cleveland for nearly 20 years and has 14 in its home state, plus in Chicago and Rochester, New York. It also has three in Ontario, Canada.

“We’re pretty full in Michigan,” Sander said in terms of market coverage. “It’s time for us to expand more outside the state.”

Perani’s primarily targets youth hockey players ages 8 to 17 but also serves those playing in adult leagues.

Sander said strong hockey interest in the northern suburbs attracted the retailer to the Polaris area.